Frequently ASked Questions
Tune Up
Do I need A Tune Up
Most newer a/c equipment these days doesn’t need semi-annual, or even annual, “tune-ups” to maintain peak performance. What you really need to do is keep your filter clean monthly and keep the area surrounding your condenser (the big box outside) clear of debris. You can even spray off the coils with a garden hose if need be. We recommend a “tune-up” on equipment that is older than 4 years, and maybe just every other year at that point.
Air Balancing
What Is Air Balancing
Air Balancing is the process of testing and adjusting your air conditioning system to deliver the right amount of air to each room in your home. When we perform the test, we use special air balancing equipment. Air balancing hoods are used to measure the amount of air at each grille. Manometers measure system pressures. Hygrometers measure system temperature and humidity. We then take the results of these tests and compile them into a report for you so that you can see how well your system is functioning.
Home Energy Audit
Do I Need A Home Energy Audit
Yes, a home energy audit is highly recommended. Your home is an integrated system, and discomfort or high energy bills are rarely caused by just one component, even though the central air conditioning system often takes the blame. At Outwest Air, we offer a comprehensive home energy audit conducted by a certified technician. Using advanced tools such as an infrared camera, blower door, manometer, and computerized modeling, we can accurately identify the root causes of your home’s energy inefficiencies. We assess air leakage rates, measure the efficiency of your central air conditioning system, and evaluate the performance of your insulation, ducts, windows, doors, and more. Additionally, we test combustion equipment for carbon monoxide levels and gas leaks. This thorough audit provides you with a complete energy usage footprint for your home, allowing you to address issues effectively and improve overall comfort and efficiency.
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
What Is Indoor Air Quality
Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the level of pollutants within indoor environments, which can include animal dander, bacteria, mold, airborne particulates, and organic compounds like glue, solvents, and cleaning agents. It also encompasses harmful gases such as carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, as well as pesticides. While these pollutants are often present in small amounts, factors like humidity and temperature can cause their concentrations to rise, leading to poor IAQ. However, indoor environmental quality (IEQ) goes beyond IAQ by also considering “comfort factors” like noise, light, temperature, humidity, and odor. As professional HVAC contractors, we are dedicated to identifying and addressing the factors that affect both your indoor air quality and overall comfort, ensuring a healthier and more pleasant living environment.
How To Control Summer Cooling Cost
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2. Turn your thermostat down if you will be gone during the day. Better yet, consider investing in a programmable thermostat.
3. Make sure you clean or replace your air filter regularly. For home with “high traffic” (kids, dogs, neighbor kids, neighbor dogs, construction in the neighborhood…), a monthly filter change is recommended. Make a mental note to change the filter when you pay your monthly utility bill.
4. Put some shade over your a/c (condenser) unit. Air in a shaded space is cooler than the surrounding air, which means that the A/C has an easier time cooling the air. Be careful not to restrict the air, though.
5. Keep plants, shrubs, and other landscaping about two to four feet away from your condenser (outdoor unit). This will give adequate air flow for the system.
6. Take advantage of energy-efficient equipment and their accompanying federal tax credits and local rebates. This applies to new windows, air conditioners, and other appliances.
7. Keep the cold air in by sealing leaks with caulking and weather-stripping. Add insulation around air conditioning ducts.
8. Use fluorescent and LED lighting to reduce lighting loads.
9. Turn off ceiling fans.
10. Keep bedroom doors open.
11. Keep registers open.
